With the recent U.S. State Department warning about travel to Mexico in the wake of a woman dying at an all-inclusive resort, safety while traveling is top of mind – especially for women. It's not the first warning about travel to Mexico: In December 2016, the government cautioned travelers about going to almost half of the country's states — some of which are home to popular vacation areas like Los Cabos and Acapulco — because of violence and crime.

But this latest warning is particularly noteworthy, as the incidents that prompted it impacted a number of women and underscored the importance of safety for female travelers, whether they're on vacation or a business trip in Mexico or anywhere in the world.

As part of the launch of its newest and 20th tribe, Solo Female Travelers, Trip by Skyscanner recently released a list of the 5 most dangerous places for solo female travelers. Based on a survey of Trip by Skyscanner users, the list comprises the lowest rated countries. For some Trip by Skyscanner users, this doesn't necessarily mean "no go," but it definitely means "take caution." And while Mexico didn't make the top 5 list, it still raises concern with people like Julia Pond, Trip.com’s editorial director, who shared her insight on how to stay safe, whether you're in Mexico or any of the places on the list.
Here, we list the 5 most dangerous places for solo female travelers, according to Trip by Skyscanner, details from the U.S. State Department about safety concerns, as well as tips for how to protect yourself while traveling.

1. Egypt

Why it's so dangerous: This country topped the Trip by Skyscanner list of dangerous places, and the U.S. Department of State has issued a stern warning to travelers about going to Egypt: "A number of terrorist groups, including ISIS, have committed multiple deadly attacks in Egypt, targeting government officials and security forces, public venues, tourist sites, civil aviation and other modes of public transportation, and a diplomatic facility." But Pond doesn't advise avoiding the country entirely. "Egypt is interesting in that a lot of people actually advise you not to travel there solo at all. That being said, there are plenty of people who do and don't have problems — Egyptians can be really hospitable," she says pointing out that although Egypt was the lowest rated country, it was still rated 5.5 on a scale of 1 to 10, indicating that it has some risk, but Trip by Skyscanner's female users did not feel that it was a no go. " It's important to remember that even in countries with political problems or issues with violence, 'danger' is not a 100% guarantee. I'd say the same with Mexico, honestly," says Pond. "There is certainly cause for concern but that doesn't mean you should cancel all travel plans."

Trip by Skyscanner's advice for how to stay safe:

• Be on your guard. In the Trip by Skyscanner survey, some women noted that Egyptian men can be aggressive, especially in crowded markets. One user noted that her “female guide would not visit the markets...because the merchants would harass her mercilessly if (the tourists) didn't stop at their stalls.”
• It is key to respect local dress norms in Egypt and avoid attracting attention: Cover your shoulders and knees. Very loose clothing that covers your wrists, ankles — and even hair — is better.
• Be aware that eye contact can be considered flirting. Some travelers find it helpful to wear sunglasses.
• Some women in the Trip by Skyscanner survey preferred to sign up for a private or small group tour, at least at the beginning of their trip. This can help you get oriented to the place and culture.
• If you do use the metro, seek out women's carriages.
• If you’re in Cairo, seek out good neighborhoods like Zamalek.
• Consider an Uber in favor of a taxi.
• Look for local information: Cairo 360 has great tips on going out, events and more in Cairo.

2. Morocco

Why it's so dangerous: Second on the list is this exotic North Africa country where there's high potential for terrorist violence against U.S. citizens, according to the State Department. The State Department also warns that crime — aggressive panhandling, pick-pocketing, purse-snatching, street robberies, burglaries — is a serious concern, particularly in major cities and tourist areas.

Trip by Skyscanner's advice for how to stay safe:

• Street smarts in Morocco are similar to other countries (wear a cross-body bag, don’t flash valuables, walk with purpose, etc).
• It’s fairly rare for a man to physically touch you — but you should expect catcalling. The best way to deal is to ignore the person and keep moving. That said, if you feel threatened, find the closest police officer and report the incident.
• Clothing is a hot topic — you’ll see a wide variety of it in Morocco. But it’s advisable to stick with modest styles and avoid belly-baring shirts, short-shorts and strappy tank tops. The reality is, the less you wear, the more unwanted attention you’ll attract.
• If you lose your way, don’t ask a man on the street: Step into a shop or ask a woman for directions. Loitering young men are eager to make quick money “helping” tourists but women out and about or shopkeepers have no ulterior motive.
• Learn some Arabic phrases: If you go outside the city, this will serve you better than French. However, basic French phrases are also worth knowing.

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